Thoroughly revised, the eighth edition of this accessible and highly respected text provides a rigorous yet digestible introduction to the European Union. It authoritatively explains developments that continue to bring challenges to this powerful institution in times of great political change.Key features include: Clearly covers the history, governing institutions, and policies of the EU. Thorough reflection on destabilizing issues such as immigration and the years of refugee crisis in Europe, stagnating economies in the Eurozone, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, tensions with China, continued Euroscepticism and populism, and the Ukraine war. A new focus on people and their experiences in the EU and an increased diversity of coverage and inclusion/exclusion, painting a richer picture of life in the EU. Fully updated with new colourful illustrations and in-text features such as Chapter Overviews, Questions to Consider, and Further Reading to encourage deeper research and debate. The authors present the EU as still one of the world's economic and political superpowers, which has brought far-reaching changes to the lives of Europeans and has helped its member states to take a newly assertive role on the global stage.Essential reading for students of European and EU politics, this book offers an up-to-the-minute look at both the opportunities and existential threats facing the EU.